Earlier this month, while we were visiting with Halfpops at Expo West, I had the opportunity to walk the halls of the Anaheim Convention Center (as well as the Marriott and Hilton — this show is huge) and check out thousands of the products being showcased.
While it’s impossible to visit everyone and try everything, I made my best effort. A few highlights from the show…
Forager Cashewgurt
As someone who gets grossed out by the thought of eating yogurt (or anything that resembles curdled milk), I was extremely skeptical of this one (come on, cashewgurt?).
With a little friendly pressure from the rep at the booth, I gave in and was pleasantly surprised by how good it was. I’m not sure I’ll ever truly be a yogurt person, but I wouldn’t mind keeping a few of the Wild Blueberry accessible in my fridge to try to get a healthier start to my day.
Hippeas
For anyone who spent time at this year’s Expo West, Hippeas was hard to miss. Their vibrant yellow branding really stood out, and everywhere you went, attendees were carrying their I’M A HIPPEA tote bags.
I was only able to try two of their six flavors (Far Out Fajita and Maple Haze), and while they weren’t my favorite snack, I like the concept and love the branding enough to try their other flavors should I come across them.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
Words cannot fully express the love I have for Jeni’s. I was first introduced to this amazing ice cream a couple years ago when I lived in Chicago and there was a Jeni’s within walking distance of my house. While every flavor is unique and delicious, there’s nothing in the world quite as satisfying as their Salted Peanut Butter with Chocolate Flecks.
Not only were they a friendly bunch to be around, but the reps were also generous with their free scoops of ice cream. Needless to say, I stopped by for a visit each day of the show. I’ve heard there are two shops in the LA area now, so I’ll be seeing you guys again real soon.
Great Midwest Cheese
Remember earlier when I mentioned my resistance to anything that resembles curdled milk? Let me be clear that that in no way affects my appetite for cheese (except for the cottage variety). I’ve been known to eat a dangerous amount of cheese in one sitting.
The reps at the Great Midwest Cheese booth claimed this Mango Fire Cheddar was a crowd favorite, so I willingly decided to investigate for myself.
What starts out as a sweet, fruity cheddar slowly begins to warm, until the heat from the habanero completely takes over. While it isn’t a kick-you-in-the-face-heat, there’s enough spice to prevent some people from going back for seconds. I was not one of those people.
I’ve got more highlights from the show that I’ll share next week, and in the meantime, I’ll be dreaming of peanut butter ice cream and spicy mango cheese.
Snack on,
Vince